The unusual control configuration, lack of a pickguard (no holes either), odd pickups, non 5-way control on the lower bout, and metal covers on back confuse me. The neck, headstock, and carved body are definitely the same as my other Outlaws.

I bought it knowing it was unusual. I'd heard rumors of outlaw prototypes. I'm not sure on keeping it though because the seller misrepresented some details. He said he didn't have the modules (which was fine as I have extra) but upon delivery I discovered the MPC electronics are missing in the cavity. I will either keep it as is, negotiate a discount, or return it depending on your advice. I got it for $400 which seems in the range for X720-X730 Outlaws and I know X740s go for a bit more while X710s seem to go for less.

I think there was some conversation about this very guitar on the old board. I figure it's one of two things; A very modified X740 or a one off, dare I say, prototype. I, like others hate throwing "prototype" around, but they are out there and this could be one. Either way I'd bet the tuners, control layout & at least one pickup are non-original.

I'd say the price is high if it's a modified X740 or low if it's a prototype

You'll see the MPC guts floating around on fleabay once in a while. If it's a great player, I'd think about keeping it.

How much do the MPC electronics usually go for? The seller is willing to negotiate for "repairs."

I knew the tuners weren't original and assumed the same about the pickups. One other thing that's different from my other Outlaws is that the area where the neck meets the body and goes through is thicker and more pronounced (like a regular neck joint), while my other Outlaws are more scooped out.

I don't think it was ever an X740 (then modified) though, because my other two 740s are exactly the same. This one never had a pickguard (no holes or marks from fills), the neck is 5 pieces instead of 3 piece with 2 darker body stripes on the others, the upper and lower body parts are one piece eack when my others are 2 pieces sandwiched, and the pickup selector location (bottom instead of top).

Of course I want to keep it. The neck feels great and if you read my new member post you know I'm addicted - 12 Electras and counting. They are like kittens and puppies. Once they are in your house, it's over.

If he's willing to negotiate, I'd ask for $100.00 and settle for $75.00. You might get the guts for a bit less if you get lucky but it'll probably take a while to find them, be some tedious work putting them in and getting them working. That plus the guitar will no longer be original electronics.